In Spain, Catalonia’s regional government has made the decision to provide free distribution of menstrual products. Around 2.5 million individuals will be eligible to receive one menstrual cup, underwear, and two packs of pads at no cost from pharmacies.
In Spain, the regional government of Catalonia has decided to provide free distribution of menstrual products. Approximately 2.5 million individuals will be able to receive one menstrual cup, underwear, and two packs of pads for free from pharmacies. The funding for these free products will come from recycling approximately 9,000 tons of used pad waste in the region.
The Catalan government has stated that the goal of the initiative, named “My period, my rules,” is to “ensure the right to menstrual equality.”
Tània Verge, Catalonia’s Minister for Equality and Feminism, stated, “For decades, women’s sexual and reproductive rights have been at the forefront of the global feminist struggle. This initiative contributes to making our country a fairer place.”
Disposable hygiene products are generating 9,000 tons of waste
According to a survey conducted by the regional government, 23% of participating women stated that they reuse disposable hygiene products due to economic reasons.
The regional government has announced that Catalonia produces approximately 9,000 tons of waste from disposable women’s hygiene products. The distribution of reusable products also aims to reduce waste.
Reusable products are purchased by the public health system, covering the entire population, and distributed by over 3,000 private pharmacies in Catalonia.
Under the leadership of the yhe Socialists’ Party of Catalonia government, Spain has taken a historic step by approving a legislative measure allowing paid medical leave for women suffering from severe menstrual pain. Thus, Spain became the first European country to approve such a law.